Li Auto’s CEO, Li Xiang, has pledged to combat potential criminal behavior following a wave of negative online comments targeting the company’s first battery electric vehicle (BEV) model, the Li Mega. The comments, which surfaced shortly after the Li Mega’s launch, have raised concerns about their impact on potential customers.
“In the past 10 days, the events surrounding Li Auto should be clear to everyone,” Li Xiang wrote in a recent post on his personal WeChat account. “We are already taking legal action against those engaging in organized illegal and criminal acts,” he added, without specifying the nature of the comments.
The Li Mega, officially launched on March 1, is currently only available in the Max trim, starting at RMB 559,800 ($77,840), making it Li Auto’s highest-priced model. The vehicle features a unique design reminiscent of a Chinese high-speed rail locomotive, aimed at reducing wind resistance for improved range.
With a wind resistance rating of just 0.215, similar to that of a coupe, the Li Mega boasts a claimed range of 710 kilometers on a single charge from its 102.7-kWh battery pack. It can also achieve a 500-kilometer range with just a 12-minute charge.
Despite these features, the Li Mega’s rear design has drawn criticism on Chinese social media, with many comparing it to a coffin, a negative association for a vehicle focused on safety. While initial criticism was limited, it has escalated in recent days, flooding the comment sections of Li Auto’s social media livestreams.
See also: Li Auto CEO Expects Strong Sales for Li Mega BEV, Sets Ambitious Targets for 2024
Li Auto has expressed confidence that the Li Mega will become the top-selling model in its price range, aiming for monthly sales of 8,000 units. However, reports suggest that fewer than 4,000 orders were placed in the first 72 hours after its launch, raising concerns about its market performance.
“We choose to fight back and counter the darkness with light,” Li Xiang stated, emphasizing his commitment to addressing the negative comments.
